Our History

A story in constant evolution, true to the spirit of Carlin Lake.

A place anchored
in the Laurentians

Carling Lake, located in the Lower Laurentians, northwest of Pine Hill, is now known for its golf course and hotel. It is now a refined holiday destination, harmoniously integrated into its natural environment.

The First Pioneers

1835

To understand the history of Lake Carling,
it must go back to 1835.

That year, James Carlin, accompanied by his wife Mary Doherty, his mother Margaret Shannon and their children, arrived in Canada after fleeing the cholera epidemic in Ireland. After a long journey from County Mayo, the family acquired 200 acres of land in Grenville Township and committed to a life of hard work and resilience.

Building a Life by the Lake

Over the years, the Carlin family cleared land, built a log cabin and developed a self-sufficient farm. Crops, livestock and crafts allow them to support themselves, while the family grows and takes root sustainably at the lake.

A Story Passed Down

After the deaths of James and Mary Carlin, their sons continued the family work. Terrance Carlin settled in the Buckingham area, where his descendants still reside, while Thomas Carlin maintained the Carling Lake farm until the early 20th century, perpetuating the connection between the family and the land.

The Hillebrand Era – 1984

In 1984, Carling Lake entered a new phase of its history with the arrival of Herbert Hillebrand, a German businessman with a flamboyant and atypical life. Under his leadership, the site transformed: the golf course became public and in 1992, the Hôtel du Lac Carling was inaugurated, offering 98 rooms in the heart of the Laurentian landscape.

Where Heritage Meets Elegance

Hillebrand’s European influence, combined with the legacy of the Irish pioneers, shapes the unique identity of Lac Carling—a place where nature, history and elegance coexist.

A new chapter
2024 to today

In 2024, a major fire marks an important turning point. True to the spirit of resilience that has inhabited the site for nearly two centuries, Carling Lake looks toward the future. The reopening project planned for 2026 aims to revive this iconic place, while respecting its history and adapting it to today’s expectations.